Contract Awarded for Phase Two of the Energy Innovation Roadmap

To help identify opportunities to stimulate future innovation and strategic investment in Newfoundland and Labrador’s energy sector, Hatch Limited has been awarded a contract valued at approximately $158,000 to begin work on Phase Two of the province’s Energy Innovation Roadmap.

“The awarding of this contract builds upon our government’s commitment to pursue a coordinated strategic approach to energy innovation with a particular focus on areas of competitive advantage,” said the Honourable Jerome Kennedy, Minister of Natural Resources. “The development of a series of roadmaps will identify potential opportunities for further development, expansion, and diversification while contributing to the continued growth and success of Newfoundland and Labrador’s energy sector.”

The Phase One report, released in July 2011, provided a detailed analysis of the province’s energy sector and innovation opportunities in several key areas including oil and gas, hydroelectricity, onshore wind, remote energy systems, and energy transmission. The report can be located on the Department of Natural Resources website at www.nr.gov.nl.ca/nr/publications/energy/#reports.

Phase Two will involve the development of specific roadmaps for the areas identified during Phase One. Hatch Limited will complete a roadmap for the areas of Onshore Wind and Transmission in Harsh Environments.

“As a result of the work to be completed in Phase Two, Newfoundland and Labrador will potentially develop world-class expertise in specific areas that could be utilized for the continued exploration and development of our significant energy resources, and could solidify our position as energy leaders in the international marketplace,” said Minister Kennedy.

The Provincial Government’s Energy Plan committed to the creation of an Energy Innovation Roadmap to provide direction, focus, and priorities for future energy technologies. The Energy Plan initially committed $5 million to support detailed recommendations and advice on the planning, implementing, and financing of energy innovation in the province. Budget 2012: People and Prosperity provided $1.5 million to support Energy Plan initiatives including the creation of an Energy Innovation Roadmap.

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Media contact:
Heather Maclean
Director of Communications
Department of Natural Resources
709-729-5282, 697-4137
heathermaclean@gov.nl.ca

2012 05 18                               12:30 p.m.